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Himeji: A Hidden Gem of Japan
For many travelers, Japan brings to mind the bustling cities of Tokyo and Kyoto or the natural wonders of Mount Fuji and Hokkaido. But tucked away in the Hyogo prefecture lies the city of Himeji, a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of Japanese culture and history. As a National Geography journalist, I had the pleasure of exploring Himeji and discovering the treasures this city has to offer.
Scenery and Highlights
Himeji is best known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle. This towering beauty is a stunning example of Japanese castle architecture, with its sleek white walls and intricate roofs. Visitors can embark on a guided tour inside the castle to learn about its history or simply admire the view from the outside along with the surrounding cherry blossom trees during the springtime.
Another noteworthy attraction is the Kokoen Garden, located just a short walk from Himeji Castle. This garden boasts a serene atmosphere perfect for enjoying a relaxing walk or a picnic with friends and family. It is also possible to try on traditional Japanese kimonos within the garden for a truly immersive experience.
For those who love traditional Japanese crafts, Himeji has plenty to offer. The city is famous for its production of “Himeji-yaki” ceramics, which can be found in various stores and workshops around the city. The Engyoji Temple, located on a mountaintop accessible by cable car, is also a unique destination as it houses the Shosha Art Village, a collection of galleries and workshops for ceramic art and other traditional Japanese crafts.
What I Like and Dislike
Himeji is a small city that is easy to navigate and has a peaceful atmosphere. I enjoyed wandering around the back streets and discovering hidden shrines and temples. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there is a beautiful mix of old and new architecture to take in.
However, the city can be quite quiet at night, with limited options for nightlife. Additionally, while Himeji is beautiful, the city may not have as many tourist attractions as other Japanese cities, so travelers may have to look harder to find things to do.
Cost of Living
The average cost of living in Himeji is relatively affordable compared to other major Japanese cities. A typical day’s expenses would come to around 10,000 yen ($90 USD) for food, transportation, and accommodation. Street food is widely available in Himeji and a range of meals can be found for 500 to 1000 yen ($4.50 to $9).
Top 20 Tourist Attractions in Himeji
1. Himeji Castle (68 Honmachi, Himeji 670-0012, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
2. Kokoen Garden (68 Honmachi, Himeji 670-0012, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
3. Shoshazan Engyoji Temple (2968-1 Shosha, Himeji 671-2201, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
4. Himeji City Museum of Art (68 Honmachi, Himeji 670-0012, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
5. Himeji Central Park (1504-2 Kaura, Himeji 671-2131, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
6. Otokoyama Honten Sake Brewery (60 Hara, Himeji 670-0049, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
7. Koko-en Garden Museum (68 Honmachi, Himeji 670-0012, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
8. Himeji Tegarayama Amusement Park (489-2 Tegara, Himeji 670-0969, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
9. Himeji Zoo (68-1 Nobusue, Himeji 671-0102, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
10. Terayama Shochu Sake Brewery (1-13-7 Teramae, Himeji 670-0023, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
11. Kaju-ji Temple (67 Mitsuishi-machi, Himeji 670-0962, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
12. Osakabe Shrine (Tarumicho, Himeji 670-0089, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
13. Hyogo Prefecture Museum of History (5-41 Kuraki-cho, Himeji 670-0940, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
14. Kameyama Koen Park (Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
15. Himeji City Aquarium (210 Yumesaki-cho, Himeji 670-0927, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
16. Kobe Shinwa Women’s University (2-1 Gakuen, Himeji 672-8522, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
17. Bessho Pond (Tarumicho, Himeji 670-0089, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
18. Himeji City Literature Museum (90 Higashiyama-cho, Himeji 671-0204, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
19. Himeji Science Museum (93-2 Nakajima. Himeji 670-0824, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
20. Sannomiya Shrine (Mikiri-cho 76, Nada-ku, Kobe 657-0047, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan)
Street Food and Where to Find Them
1. Taiyaki (fish-shaped cake): Takara Taiyaki (1-53 Toyotomi, Himeji 672-8003)
2. Okonomiyaki (savoury pancake): Mimiu (7-1-12 Toyozakicho, Himeji 671-1132)
3. Ikayaki (grilled squid): Gurukun (1-59-0 Toyotomi, Himeji 672-8003)
4. Takoyaki (octopus balls): Takoya (1-59-1 Toyotomi, Himeji 672-8003)
5. Kushiage (deep-fried skewers): Kushino Kura (60 Hara, Himeji 670-0049)
Top 10 Hotels and Airbnb Lists
Hotels:
1. Himeji Castle Grandvrio Hotel (210 Sasade-cho, Himeji 670-0962, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan) – $80+ USD
2. Nikko Hotel Himeji (100 Minamino-cho, Himeji 670-0924, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan) – $100+ USD
3. Hotel Wing International Himeji (132 Ekimaecho, Himeji 670-0923, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan) – $70+ USD
4. Himeji City Hotel (2-66 Honmachi, Himeji 670-0012, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan) – $60+ USD
5. Hotel New Himeji (55-3 Toyozakicho, Himeji 671-1132, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan) – $80+ USD
Airbnb:
1. Fun Studio Apartment in Himeji City (Sho-joshi Himejai, Himeji) – $40+ USD
2. Peaceful Room near Himeji Castle (Md Shosha, Himeji) – $50+ USD
3. Cozy Tatami Room in a Japanese House (Kawaramachi, Himeji) – $30+ USD
4. Spacious and Modern Apartment in Himeji (Nishi-yamatenjicho, Himeji) – $70+ USD
5. Traditional Japanese House near Himeji Castle (Nakabe-cho, Himeji) – $100+ USD
Top Five Recommendations
1. Himeji Castle Grandvrio Hotel: Located just a short walk from Himeji Castle, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a relaxed atmosphere, and a stunning view of the castle.
2. Hotel Wing International Himeji: Conveniently located close to Himeji Station, this hotel offers standard rooms at a reasonable price.
3. Fun Studio Apartment in Himeji City: With its perfect location in the heart of the city, this Airbnb is a great choice for couples or solo travelers looking for a cozy place to stay.
4. Cozy Tatami Room in a Japanese House: For travelers who want a unique experience, this Airbnb offers a traditional tatami room in a Japanese house, complete with a zen garden.
5. Traditional Japanese House near Himeji Castle: This spacious Airbnb is perfect for families or groups of friends and provides a rare opportunity to stay in a traditional Japanese house.
Three Day Itinerary:
Day 1:
1. Himeji Castle
2. Kokoen Garden
3. Takara Taiyaki (for a snack)
4. Himeji City Museum of Art
5. Mimiu (for dinner)
Day 2:
1. Shoshazan Engyoji Temple
2. Shosha Art Village
3. Gurukun (for a snack)
4. Osakabe Shrine
5. Kameyama Koen Park
Day 3:
1. Himeji City Aquarium
2. Himeji Tegarayama Amusement Park
3. Kushino Kura (for lunch)
4. Bessho Pond
5. Himeji Science Museum
Himeji is a city that truly showcases the beauty and culture of Japan. With its stunning castle, peaceful gardens, and interesting museums, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The street food is a must-try and the range of accommodation options means that any traveler can find a place to suit their budget. I rate Himeji 8 out of 10 stars for its charming atmosphere and unique experiences.
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